Kukla's Korner Hockey

Entries with the tag: kevyn adams

“At 34, to be a fourth-line guy, teams are not sure I can stay healthy,” (Kevyn) Adams said. “A team would rather put in a 22-year-old who’s spent a year or two in the minors, pay him same money and be a guy they drafted. …

“I’ve won a Cup and done a lot of things and can bring a lot to a team, but it’s different for me than a guy like Roddy (Brind’Amour). It’s a similar injury, but he’s a top-line guy, not a depth guy. I’m in shape. If the phone rings I’m ready.”

If his career continues, it will be with a team that ignores statistics and values the impact he has on others. You want points? Find somebody else. He’s not a 60-goal scorer or a 140-point guy for his career. You want a selfless teammate, a tireless worker, a consummate professional, a leader by example? He’s waiting by the phone.

Unfortunately, players like him aren’t in high demand in the NHL. The Blackhawks thought the world of his intangibles last year, but they’re over the salary cap after signing defenseman Brian Campbell. Don’t be surprised if they make some moves to get their salary structure in order and bring back Adams, who made $600,000 last year, for another season.

The Blackhawks acquired him because they thought he could mentor rookies Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews while boosting the penalty kill. After all, he’s been a respected leader for years and helped Carolina win the Cup in 2006. The Hawks wound up treasuring him more for his work while he was injured than they did for his play on the ice.

The Hawks suffered a big loss when veteran center Kevyn Adams went down with a knee injury with 8 minutes 27 seconds left in the first period. Adams, the leader of the Hawks both on and off the ice, was checked into the boards and his left knee appeared to buckle.

“It looks like the ACL and MCL, and he will be out for quite a while,” Savard said. “We lose a great leader, but it gives somebody a chance to get an opportunity. He has been awesome in the locker room.”